Introduction
Is it possible to get a bakery level Halloween dessert that looks party perfect yet uses simple pantry staples and under an hour of hands on time The answer is yes and these Ghost Cheesecake Brownies prove it Search trends spike for brownies every October and for good reason they are crowd pleasing chocolatey and highly decorate able for spooky season In my kitchen this mashup always disappears first at school parties family movie nights and neighborhood potlucks because it blends creamy tangy cheesecake swirls with deep fudgy cocoa then tops it with adorable marshmallow ghost faces You get impressive presentation without tricky piping or specialty tools which makes this a smart pick for busy hosts planning Halloween Food Recipes or last minute treat tables.
These Ghost Cheesecake Brownies taste like a cross between a classic fudge brownie and New York style cheesecake The texture contrast feels luxurious yet the method is approachable for beginners If you can whisk you can make these The base starts with a glossy cocoa batter The cheesecake layer is a quick mix of cream cheese sugar egg and vanilla The ghosts are simply marshmallows dipped in white chocolate with mini chocolate chip eyes They set fast and stay cute even after traveling in a container to the party.
I also love that this recipe fits many holiday menus Whether you are doing a full lineup of Halloween Themed Food or just want a single showstopper dessert these brownies deliver They are easy to slice transport and serve which makes them perfect for Halloween Food Ideas For Parties and cozy Fall Snacks nights at home Keep reading for step by step instructions pro tips simple swaps and ideas to pair with savory bites and sips so your spooky spread feels complete.
Why You’ll Love These Ghost Cheesecake Brownies
- True two in one dessert You get fudgy brownie plus creamy cheesecake in every bite with cute ghost toppers for instant seasonal flair
- Beginner friendly method Clear steps one bowl brownie batter and a mixer or whisk for the cheesecake layer
- Party perfect squares Slice cleanly and travel well so they shine on dessert boards and buffet tables for Halloween Dinner Ideas
- Flexible ingredients Use either butter or oil choose cocoa powder or melted chocolate and swap decorations based on what you have
- Make ahead friendly The flavor and texture improve after a chill so you can bake the day before
- Kid approved and adult worthy Rich chocolate balances tangy cheesecake and the ghosts are a delightful conversation starter for Halloween Finger Foods tables
Ingredients for Ghost Cheesecake Brownies
- For the brownie base
- Unsalted butter 10 tablespoons melted and slightly cooled Substitute neutral oil for a softer crumb
- Granulated sugar 1 cup
- Brown sugar 1 fourth cup adds moisture
- Large eggs 2 at room temperature
- Vanilla extract 2 teaspoons
- All purpose flour 1 cup For gluten free use a 1 to 1 baking blend
- Unsweetened cocoa powder half cup Dutch process for deeper color
- Salt half teaspoon
- Espresso powder half teaspoon optional boosts chocolate flavor
- Chocolate chips half cup optional mix in
- For the cheesecake swirl
- Cream cheese 8 ounces softened
- Granulated sugar third cup
- Large egg 1
- Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
- For the ghost toppers
- Large marshmallows 12 to 16 depending on cut size
- White chocolate chips or wafers 1 cup for dipping
- Mini chocolate chips for eyes and mouths You can use black icing if preferred
- Coconut oil or shortening 1 teaspoon helps melt white chocolate smoothly
How to Make Ghost Cheesecake Brownies
Step by Step Instructions
- Prep the pan Heat oven to 350 degrees F Line a 9 x 9 inch metal pan with parchment with overhang on two sides Lightly coat with spray
- Make brownie batter In a large bowl whisk warm melted butter with both sugars until glossy Whisk in eggs one at a time then vanilla
- Whisk dry ingredients In another bowl whisk flour cocoa salt and espresso powder if using Fold dry ingredients into wet just until combined Stir in chocolate chips if using Do not overmix
- Make cheesecake mixture Beat softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth Add egg and vanilla Beat until silky with no lumps Scrape bowl
- Assemble Add about two thirds of the brownie batter to the pan Spread evenly Spoon the cheesecake mixture in dollops over the batter Add remaining brownie batter in small spoonfuls
- Create swirls Drag a butter knife through the layers in gentle S shapes to marble Do not over swirl so you keep contrast
- Bake Bake 28 to 34 minutes until the edges are set and a tester comes out with moist crumbs The center should not jiggle more than slightly
- Cool Cool in pan on a rack for at least 1 hour Lift out using parchment then chill 30 minutes for neat slicing
- Make ghost toppers Melt white chocolate with coconut oil in a microwave safe bowl in 20 second bursts stirring until smooth Dip marshmallows to coat set on parchment Add mini chocolate chip eyes and mouth while still tacky Chill 10 minutes to set
- Top and serve Cut brownies into squares Place one marshmallow ghost on each square Press gently If transporting add toppers at the venue to prevent sliding
- Optional garnish Dust with cocoa or drizzle with leftover white chocolate Add candy eyes for extra Spooky Snacks magic
Pro Tips & Variations
- Room temperature matters Bring cream cheese and eggs to room temperature for a silky cheesecake swirl Cold cream cheese can leave lumps
- Shiny top trick Whisk sugar into hot butter then beat in eggs until the mixture looks thick and ribbony This encourages that classic brownie sheen
- Clean cuts Chill before slicing and use a warm knife Wipe between cuts for bakery clean edges that showcase the swirl
- Balance sweetness If using sweet white chocolate ghosts reduce brown sugar by a tablespoon for a more balanced bite
- Make ahead advantage Bake a day in advance Flavors meld and the texture sets which is ideal for buffets and Easy Halloween Food spreads
Variations
- Gluten free Use a cup for cup gluten free baking blend Add 1 tablespoon milk if batter seems thick
- Dairy free Swap butter for neutral oil Use dairy free cream cheese and dairy free white chocolate The texture will be slightly softer but still delicious
- Extra dark chocolate Replace a quarter cup of flour with additional cocoa and stir in chopped dark chocolate for intense flavor
- Peppermint twist For winter parties add a half teaspoon peppermint extract to cheesecake and top with crushed peppermint candy
- Spiderweb finish Skip marshmallow ghosts Pipe a white chocolate spiral on the baked brownies and drag a toothpick outward to make a web to align with your Halloween Themed Food.
Serving Suggestions
- Build a spooky dessert board Surround squares with candy eyes chocolate covered pretzels and a bowl of Halloween Candy mix
- Pair with savory bites Contrast the sweetness with salty snacks and playful bites like Halloween Finger Foods and a skull shaped veggie platter for crunch
- Drinks for the win Offer kid friendly milk or hot cocoa and a fun punch For more themed sips try colorful mocktails that match your table
- Dinner and dessert Do a themed main like mini meatloaf ghosts as part of a full Spooky Dinner then finish with these brownies
- Party sampler Set alongside other Halloween Food Recipes so guests can mix and match
Storage & Reheating
- Room temperature Keep covered at cool room temp up to 8 hours for serving
- Refrigerator Store in an airtight container up to 4 days Place parchment between layers to protect the ghosts
- Freezer Freeze un topped brownie slabs well wrapped for up to 2 months Thaw overnight in the fridge Add ghosts just before serving
- Reheating Not required but if you enjoy warm brownies remove the ghost topper then microwave a square 10 to 12 seconds Add ghost back on top
FAQ about Ghost Cheesecake Brownies
- Can I use a box brownie mix Yes Prepare the mix as directed for a 9 x 9 pan Pour in two thirds then add the cheesecake mixture and swirl Bake until just set This shortcut keeps the focus on decorating for Halloween Food Ideas For Parties
- How do I keep cheesecake from cracking Do not overbake Remove when the center still has a slight wobble and cool completely before chilling
- What if I do not have white chocolate Use vanilla candy coating almond bark or even a dusting of powdered sugar and candy eyes
- Can I make mini versions Yes Bake in a lined muffin pan fill each cup with batter and swirl cheesecake Bake 15 to 18 minutes Decorate with half marshmallow ghosts for bite size Spooky Snacks
- How many times should I say Ghost Cheesecake Brownies As many as it takes to remember to bake them for your next party These are a must for any dessert table
Final Thoughts on Ghost Cheesecake Brownies
These Ghost Cheesecake Brownies are the playful showpiece your October menu needs The method is simple the flavors are familiar and the look is delightfully eerie which makes them a perfect bridge between kid friendly fun and grown up indulgence Whether you are planning a casual movie night or a full scale themed bash these bars promise empty plates and happy guests.
If you try them please leave a comment with how you personalized the ghosts or any flavor twists you loved Save this post to Pinterest for easy planning next month If you enjoy seasonal bakes and clever shortcuts subscribe for fresh recipes dessert boards and more ideas to round out your Easy Halloween Food and Halloween Food Ideas For Parties lineup.
When your friends ask for the recipe point them here or package a few squares in treat bags for a thoughtful gift Then start planning your next bake because once these are gone your crew will be back for another round of Ghost Cheesecake Brownies and all the festive sweets on your list.
Ghost Cheesecake Brownies
Equipment
- 9 x 9 inch metal pan
- Mixer or whisk
- microwave-safe bowl,
Ingredients
Brownie base
- 10 tablespoons unsalted butter melted and slightly cooled; substitute neutral oil for a softer crumb
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar adds moisture
- 2 large eggs at room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup all purpose flour For gluten free use a 1 to 1 baking blend
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder Dutch process for deeper color
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon espresso powder optional, boosts chocolate flavor
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips optional mix in
Cheesecake Swirl
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Ghost Toppers
- 12-16 large marshmallows depending on cut size
- 1 cup white chocolate chips or wafers for dipping
- mini chocolate chips for eyes and mouths; can use black icing if preferred
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil or shortening helps melt white chocolate smoothly
Instructions
- Prep the pan: Heat oven to 350°F. Line a 9 x 9 inch metal pan with parchment with overhang on two sides. Lightly coat with spray.
- Make brownie batter: In a large bowl whisk warm melted butter with both sugars until glossy. Whisk in eggs one at a time then vanilla.
- Whisk dry ingredients: In another bowl whisk flour, cocoa, salt, and espresso powder if using. Fold dry ingredients into wet just until combined. Stir in chocolate chips if using. Do not overmix.
- Make cheesecake mixture: Beat softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth. Add egg and vanilla. Beat until silky with no lumps. Scrape bowl.
- Assemble: Add about two thirds of the brownie batter to the pan and spread evenly. Spoon the cheesecake mixture in dollops over the batter. Add remaining brownie batter in small spoonfuls.
- Create swirls: Drag a butter knife through the layers in gentle S shapes to marble. Do not over swirl to keep contrast.
- Bake: Bake 28 to 34 minutes until edges are set and a tester comes out with moist crumbs. Center should not jiggle more than slightly.
- Cool: Cool in pan on a rack for at least 1 hour. Lift out using parchment then chill 30 minutes for neat slicing.
- Make ghost toppers: Melt white chocolate with coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl in 20 second bursts stirring until smooth. Dip marshmallows to coat and set on parchment. Add mini chocolate chip eyes and mouth while still tacky. Chill 10 minutes to set.
- Top and serve: Cut brownies into squares. Place one marshmallow ghost on each square. Press gently. If transporting add toppers at the venue to prevent sliding.
- Optional garnish: Dust with cocoa or drizzle with leftover white chocolate. Add candy eyes for extra Spooky Snacks magic.
